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Chapter 114: The Plan

The next morning, the inn was already bustling with early risers. As I descended the stairs to the common room, the scent of fresh bread and bacon filled the air, along with the hum of quiet conversation. I made my way to a corner table, sitting down as a few curious glances flicked my way from the other patrons.

I ignored them, my focus drifting to the task ahead. The bandits were still scattered, but now that I knew their locations, it wouldn't take long to start making my way through them.

As I waited for breakfast, snippets of conversation floated over from a nearby table, catching my attention.

"Did you hear? The Baron's son's been kidnapped by Korvan's men," a man whispered, his voice barely audible over the clatter of dishes.

"Yeah, I heard. They say Baron Edris is offering a huge reward for anyone who can take down Korvan and bring his son back."

"Gold and land, no less! Every fighter within a hundred miles is going to be flocking to Rackenshore to try their luck. It's going to be chaos."

My lips twitched into a faint smirk as I leaned back in my chair. 'So, they've finally started to make their move,' I thought, mildly amused by the desperation of the baron's offer. Of course, gold and land would attract all kinds of riffraff, but none of them would be capable of doing what needed to be done. Still, it was amusing that they were willing to go so far.

Just then, Greta approached, a warm smile on her face as she set a plate of food in front of me. "Good morning, sir," she greeted cheerfully. "Is there anything else you'd like?"

I nodded toward the table of gossipers. "What's all this talk about a decree?" I asked casually, picking up my fork. "Something about a reward?"

Greta's smile faltered slightly, her eyes darting to the other table before returning to me. "Oh, yes," she said quietly, lowering her voice. "Baron Edris Wyndhall's son was kidnapped last night. The baron's offering a reward to anyone who can bring him back and put an end to Korvan's bandits."

She paused, her brow furrowing in concern. "It's dangerous business, though. Korvan's men are... well, they're not to be trifled with."

"Dangerous," I mused, taking a bite of the bread. "And yet, there's a reward."

Greta nodded, her hands fidgeting nervously. "Yes, a large one. Gold, land... enough to set someone up for life. But... it won't be easy.

Those bandits have terrorized this town for years, and now, with the baron's son taken, they're more vicious than ever."

I glanced at Greta, her concern genuine. "And what do you think will happen?" I asked, leaning back slightly.

She hesitated, glancing around the room as if to make sure no one was listening. "I don't know," she admitted softly. "But I fear that things will only get worse before they get better. With so many mercenaries and fighters coming into town, it's bound to bring more trouble."

Her words hung in the air, but I could sense that there was something more, something she wasn't saying. "It seems you're worried about something else," I noted, watching her expression carefully.

Greta bit her lip, then sighed. "It's just... the baron's son, Ron... he's not exactly... well, people say he's... how do I put this politely..."

"An arrogant fool?" I finished for her, raising an eyebrow.

Greta winced but nodded. "Yes. He's... made some enemies, even among those who should be helping. If it wasn't for his father's influence, well, let's just say he'd be in trouble more often."

I hummed thoughtfully, absorbing her words. So, the baron's son wasn't exactly beloved, even by his own people. That made things more interesting. Still, none of that mattered in the grand scheme. The bandits were my concern, not the boy's personality.

"Well," I said, finishing my food, "thank you for the information."

Greta smiled, though it was more subdued this time. "Of course, sir. Be careful out there."

I gave her a nod and stood, heading for the door. 'A bounty, huh?' I thought, amused at the idea of being rewarded for something I'd planned to do anyway. 'I'll take care of the bandits... and the rest will fall into place.'

As I made my way toward the door, Vitaliara's voice echoed in my mind, her tone laced with amusement. [A reward for something you were going to do anyway? Sounds like you're about to make an easy profit.]

"Seems like that," I replied, adjusting the grip on my estoc. "Although I've already taken care of two of Korvan's subordinates, Lothar and Loren. It's only a matter of time before the rest of them come looking for revenge."

[They will,] she agreed, her tail flicking lazily as she perched on my shoulder in her cat form. [Though I have to say, these humans are quite interesting. You've already done the hard work, and now they're scrambling to throw gold and land at you.]

"I doubt they know I was the one who killed Lothar and Loren," I mused. "And if they did, they wouldn't be so eager to offer a reward. After all, who would pay a man who's already taken care of half the problem?"

[True,] Vitaliara purred, [but it's amusing, isn't it? The baron is desperate to save his son, and yet he has no idea that you've already done more than any of these so-called mercenaries could dream of.]

I smirked at her comment. "Humans tend to rely on grand gestures when they're cornered. They don't realize the quiet work is already being done behind the scenes."

[Still,] she continued thoughtfully, [you've drawn more attention than I expected. With the baron issuing this decree, it's only a matter of time before more people start sniffing around. Not just for Korvan, but for you.]

"That was the main point."

[The main point?] Vitaliara asked her tone a mix of curiosity and surprise.

I glanced around, noticing how more and more people were gathering in small groups, clearly buzzing about the baron's new decree. "The reason I asked for an identity and a letter of recommendation isn't just for convenience," I explained, my voice lowering slightly. "It's about legitimacy."

[Legitimacy?] she echoed a soft purr accompanying her question. [You've never seemed too concerned with how others see you. Why now?]

A small smile tugged at my lips as I considered her words. "It's not about how they see me, but how I position myself in the world," I said. "My reputation will spread, especially after dealing with Korvan and his men. That's part of the plan—build a name, attract stronger opponents, and rise through the ranks."

[But without legitimacy,] she added thoughtfully, [you'll just be seen as another outlaw. A powerful one, but a criminal nonetheless.]

"Exactly," I nodded. "If I don't establish myself with proper recognition, I'll constantly be hunted, not just by enemies, but by the authorities. I'd spend more time running than fighting, and that's not what I want. That's why it's crucial that this whole series of events—the baron's decree, Korvan's downfall—spreads far and wide. It'll give me the legitimacy I need."

'And it is also important for me to have legitimacy and connections so that I can enter the academy.'

This world is a world of romance fantasy, and it is from a book named Shattered Innocence.

'For the sake of the promise, I must enter the academy.'

At first, I did not want to have anything with the main cast or the storyline of the novel, but then, after Master was involved and requested that I look after his daughter at his last breath, it became a promise.

'And while I am at it, I will also close those ends.'

Family…..

It was indeed a word that I did not like.

But at the same time, it was something that I would eventually need to face.

That is why I need to build a reputation.

'So that you can understand what you have lost.'

The revenge I want to take.

I don't want to destroy those who abandoned me.

That would be too shallow.

What I want is different.

'That will be my path.'

But before that, I need to talk with someone.

"Let's go and meet that Roderick. He owes me an explanation."

I need to be informed of what happened, and I am sure that he wants the same.

********

The morning sun cast a pale light over Rackenshore as I made my way to Roderick's quarters, the city still bustling with the baron's newly issued decree. Whispers of mercenaries and hunters filled the air, the scent of greed and desperation lingering like an invisible fog.

Vitaliara padded softly at my side, her ears twitching at every hushed conversation we passed. [You seem troubled,] she remarked, her voice sliding into my thoughts. [Thinking about your next move?]

"More like thinking about how Roderick managed to get this tangled mess started," I replied. "Issuing a decree like that while Ron's still in enemy hands—it's reckless."

[Do you think they'll retaliate?] she asked, her tail flicking behind her.

"They will, without question. Korvan's men are no fools. If any of them hear about this decree, they'll realize the baron's playing a dangerous game. And that puts Ron in serious danger."

We reached Roderick's quarters, the guards standing aside as I pushed open the door. Inside, the knight sat behind his desk; a map spread out before him, his brows furrowed in concentration.

"Roderick," I called out, my tone firm. "We need to talk."

He looked up, his eyes narrowing as I approached. "Lucavion. I was expecting you. I assume you've heard about the decree?"

"I have," I replied, taking a seat opposite him without waiting for an invitation. "And I also know you're smart enough to realize how reckless it was."

Roderick's jaw tightened, but he remained composed. "Reckless? We had no choice. Baron Edris is desperate to get his son back, and we needed to make a bold move. The decree will draw in the kind of manpower we need to finally deal with Korvan."

I leaned forward, my gaze piercing into his. "And what happens when Korvan's men, or worse, Korvan himself, find out about this? What do you think they'll do when they realize the baron is calling for their heads? They'll kill Ron. You're gambling with his life, and you know it."

Roderick's expression faltered for just a moment, the weight of my words sinking in. "We… we've taken precautions," he said.

I shook my head, letting out a frustrated sigh. "You're dealing with bandits, not fools. If there are any of Korvan's men within the city—and I'm certain there are—they'll know soon enough. They'll put two and two together, and when they do, Ron's life is forfeit."

"We know that."

"Then…."

"There is someone amongst Korvan's men that is working with us."

At that moment, a bomb was revealed.

Chapter 115: The Plan (2)

Roderick's words hit me like a hammer.

"There is someone amongst Korvan's men that is working with us."

I raised an eyebrow, unable to conceal my surprise. Indeed, I was not expecting such a thing to happen at all.

"A man in Korvan's crew is working for you?"

Roderick nodded, his expression grim. "That's right. He's been with them for a while now, and he'll get Ron out when the time is right—once we make our move."

I narrowed my eyes, leaning forward slightly. "And why wasn't I informed of this earlier, Roderick? If you had someone embedded with Korvan's men, we could've used that to our advantage. At the very least, we would know where to find them."

Roderick met my glare, his voice steady but tinged with frustration. "He only reached out yesterday. I was in the dark about this, too, Lucavion. And in fact…" Roderick paused, rubbing his temple. "The only reason we know Ron was captured at all was because of him."

I blinked, processing his words. "You're telling me this insider allowed Ron to be taken?"

Roderick nodded. "Yes. He's one of my men. He'd been approached by the bandits and had been playing both sides, gathering information for us while feeding them just enough to stay alive. When they told him about the plan to kidnap Ron, he let it happen so we could use it to our advantage."

I glared at him, feeling the tension rising between us. "You let them take Ron to gain an upper hand? You knowingly let them think they have control?"

Roderick's expression hardened, but there was no apology in his tone. "Yes. It was a calculated risk. By allowing them to believe they have the upper hand, we've gained crucial insight into their operations. The insider now knows the exact location of their base. If we had tried to stop the kidnapping outright, we would've tipped our hand and lost any chance of tracking Korvan down."

I stood up, pacing the room for a moment, trying to digest the information. "You're playing a dangerous game, Roderick. You're gambling with Ron's life—hoping your man won't be discovered or turn on you."

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I'm aware of the risks, but it's the best chance we have to bring Korvan down once and for all."

I stopped, turning to face him, my voice low and cold. "You'd better hope you're right. If this goes wrong, Ron's blood will be on your hands."

Roderick held my gaze, his expression unflinching. "I know."

I narrowed my eyes at him, leaning slightly forward. "Why do you think I won't tell Baron Edris about this little plan of yours?"

Roderick's lips curled into a small, knowing smirk. "Firstly, you're an outsider," he said, his tone calm and measured. "Baron Edris has known me for years and trusted me with the defense of this town. You think he'll believe someone he's just met over me, his loyal knight?"

I didn't respond, allowing him to continue.

"And secondly," Roderick added, his smirk widening slightly, "if you do tell him, you'll implicate yourself. You've been seen talking with me, creating a bit of chaos around town. If the baron catches wind of that, it won't be hard for him to connect the dots and view you as an accomplice. At the very least, you'll be arrested, or worse—your entire plan falls apart.

After all, you're just an outsider with no real standing here. A perfect scapegoat if things go south."

I couldn't help but let out a laugh, shaking my head at his reasoning. "You've thought this through, haven't you?"

Roderick's smirk faded slightly, replaced by a more serious expression. "I have no intention of screwing you over, Lucavion. Believe me, I want this to end just as much as you do. The bandits need to be dealt with, and I didn't make this choice lightly. But you and I both know that sitting around, waiting for some miracle, isn't going to help the people of Rackenshore."

I folded my arms, watching him carefully as he spoke.

"I didn't betray the baron or the household by allowing this to happen," Roderick continued his voice firm. "I did what I had to do because I can no longer sit by and watch innocent people suffer. The people here are living in fear, barely scraping by because of those bastards. And if letting Ron be taken means we can finally end Korvan's reign of terror, then that's a price I'm willing to pay."

There was a brief silence as his words settled between us. I studied his expression—there was no hint of malice, no hidden agenda beyond what he had already revealed. He wasn't lying; he truly believed this was the best course of action.

I leaned back, crossing my arms. "You've got guts, I'll give you that. But you're still gambling with a lot more than just your reputation."

"Well, you are not that different."

"Indeed, that I am."

"Well, you're not that different," Roderick added, a wry smile tugging at his lips.

I let out a low chuckle, leaning back in my chair. "Indeed, that I am." My gaze locked onto his. "But now that it's come to this, you must know where the hideout is. And you must be aware that we need to move fast."

Roderick's expression hardened, and he gave a single nod. "I do. My man is already in position, and everything is set."

I raised an eyebrow, an amused smirk playing on my lips. "That decree, though—it was just a way to get my attention, wasn't it? And to create a deception that the city would take its time preparing."

Roderick's eyes gleamed with a hint of approval. "Exactly. By issuing the decree, we've given the bandits the impression that we're biding our time, gathering forces. They'll think they have a window to fortify their defenses or even negotiate. But in reality, we'll strike before they have a chance to react."

I couldn't help but smile at that. "I like this plan," I said, my voice tinged with amusement. "A surprise assault while they're busy underestimating us. Now, tell me—how many people do you have for this strike?"

Roderick leaned back in his chair, his face thoughtful. "Not enough to take on the entire group head-on, but we don't need that many."

"Heh….You still want me to work, it seems."

"That is right. Though I did not see how strong you are, considering you were the one who had taken care of Lothar and Loren, you must be really powerful."

"Hmm….Go on."

Roderick's eyes narrowed in thought as he continued, "When we make our move, it'll be you and me dealing with Korvan and his top lieutenants—two more 3-star Awakened like Lothar. The rest of my men will handle the lower-level fighters, but we don't have the numbers for a prolonged battle. We'll need to strike hard, hit fast, and eliminate the leadership before they can rally."

I leaned back, crossing my arms with a smirk playing on my lips. "You want me to do most of the heavy lifting, huh? Well, I don't mind, but you're right—we don't have time for a drawn-out fight."

Roderick met my gaze, his expression serious. "We don't have the manpower for it, and we can't afford to get bogged down. If we're too slow, Korvan's men will regroup, and Ron's life will be forfeit. We need precision. Once we hit Korvan and his lieutenants, the rest will crumble."

A low chuckle escaped me as I stood up, adjusting the grip on my estoc. "Don't worry. It'll be quick. I'll take care of Korvan and the others. You and your men just make sure the rest of the rats don't crawl away."

Roderick gave a nod, his gaze hardening with resolve. "Then it's settled. We move at dawn. There's no room for hesitation."

I turned toward the door, casting one last glance over my shoulder. "Dawn, then. Get your men ready. I'll make sure Korvan never sees it coming."

As I stepped out of the room, Vitaliara's voice echoed in my mind. [This will be interesting, won't it? You've already taken down two of his top men. Korvan must be seething by now.]

"We will see about that. There is this feeling….I feel like things will not be that easy."

[Really?]

"Yeah. At the very least, some people will die."

[As long as you don't, I don't care.]

"Well, I will not; you can be sure of that."

*******

In the dense, shadow-laden forest where Korvan's hideout was nestled, the atmosphere was heavy with tension. The bandits moved quietly through the trees, keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings. Despite the relative silence of the camp, there was an unmistakable sense of unease that had settled over the group.

Korvan's top men had fallen, and whispers of something far worse approaching swirled through the ranks.

Inside the cavernous hideout, Korvan sat brooding on a throne-like chair made of dark wood and bone; his brow furrowed in deep thought. A goblet of wine rested in his hand, but his mind was elsewhere—focused on the fact that two of his most trusted lieutenants, Lothar and Loren, had been taken out so swiftly.

He couldn't shake the nagging feeling that something bigger was at play, something far more dangerous than a simple mercenary.

Suddenly, the door to the chamber swung open, and one of his scouts stumbled in, his face pale with urgency.

"Leader!" the scout panted, his voice tight with fear. "We've received news from Rackenshore. The baron... he's issued a decree."

Korvan's eyes snapped up, his grip tightening around the goblet. "A decree?" he growled, his deep voice filling the room. "What are you talking about?"

The scout swallowed hard, taking a hesitant step forward. "Baron Edris has called for mercenaries, bounty hunters... anyone who can bring your head and rescue his son. He's offering a fortune in gold and land."

The moment the words left the scout's mouth, Korvan's face twisted into a mask of fury. His goblet slammed onto the armrest, spilling wine across the floor. "That bastard dares to make such a move?!" he roared, his voice echoing off the stone walls. "Doesn't he care about his son?!"

Korvan stood, his large frame towering over the scout. His eyes gleamed with a dangerous fire as he paced the room, fists clenched tightly at his sides. The thought that Baron Edris had issued such a bold decree, knowing full well that Korvan still had Ron in his clutches, filled him with a seething rage.

"This is a direct challenge." Alric, his right hand, exclaimed. "He knows that we won't kill the boy."

Chapter 116: Subjugation

"This is a direct challenge. He knows that we won't kill the boy."

Alric's words echoed in the room, and that made Korvan's pacing grow more furious with each passing second, his mind churning with anger. "Kill the boy," he growled, his voice filled with venom. "We should cut his head off right now and throw it at Rackenshore's gates. Show them what happens when they cross me!"

Alric, standing in the shadows just beside Korvan's throne, narrowed his eyes slightly but maintained his calm demeanor. "Korvan, we can't do that," he said, his tone measured and calculating. "If we kill the boy, we lose our only leverage. The moment his head rolls, Baron Edris will have no reason to hold back. He'll come at us with everything he has."

Korvan spun on his heel, glaring at Alric. "He's already coming at us!" he roared. "That damn decree is proof enough that the baron has decided to confront me. He doesn't care about his son's life anymore!"

Alric met Korvan's gaze, unflinching. "That's precisely why this situation feels off," he replied, his voice cool. "The baron's acting recklessly, yes, but that decree… it's a bluff. He wants us to panic, to make a mistake. If we kill Ron, he'll have no reason to negotiate, no reason to stall. And once that happens, we lose any control we have over this situation."

Korvan's fists tightened, but he listened. Alric always had a knack for seeing through traps, and his cold logic had kept Korvan's operations running smoothly for years. Still, the thought of the baron issuing such a public challenge made his blood boil.

"You think this decree is a bluff, then?" Korvan asked, his voice simmering with barely contained rage.

Alric nodded. "Yes. The baron's desperate, but he isn't foolish. He knows we're still holding his son, which is the only thing keeping him from launching a full-scale assault. But this decree, Korvan—it's designed to provoke us. To force us to make a move before we're ready."

Korvan gritted his teeth, considering Alric's words. "So, what do you propose?" he asked, his voice low. "We just sit here and wait?"

Alric's lips curled into a small, calculating smile. "No. We prepare. We fortify the camp and make sure no one slips in unnoticed. But we don't kill the boy. Not yet.

Let them think they have us cornered. Let them believe their decree is working. Meanwhile, we'll be the ones setting the trap."

Korvan's anger slowly began to subside as Alric's plan took shape in his mind. His right-hand man was right—they still had leverage. Killing the boy now would only lead to chaos. But keeping him alive… that gave them options.

Korvan took a deep breath, nodding slowly. "Fine. We'll play their game for now. But if they make one wrong move—just one—I want that boy's head on a pike."

Alric gave a slight bow. "Understood, Leader. I'll make sure everything is ready. We won't let them catch us off guard."

As Alric left the chamber to set the preparations in motion, Korvan sat back in his chair, his mind still buzzing with anger but tempered by the knowledge that they still held the upper hand.

Yet, Alric did not expect such a reckless thing to be the first thing at dawn.

*********

In the dim light of dawn, the forest around Korvan's hideout was shrouded in a thick fog. The bandits, uneasy after the news of Lothar and Loren's deaths and the baron's decree, were more alert than usual. A small group of them patrolled the perimeter of the camp, their weapons at the ready, though the weariness in their eyes betrayed their exhaustion.

Two bandits, walking side by side, muttered to each other, their voices low but tense.

"Can you believe this mess?" one of them grumbled, his hand gripping the hilt of his sword tightly. "Everything was fine just a few weeks ago. We had Rackenshore in our pockets, and now... Now we're losing men left and right, and that decree? I didn't sign up to fight a whole army."

The other bandit, a scruffy-looking man with a scar running down his cheek, snorted in agreement. "Yeah, no kidding. First, Lothar and Loren get wiped out like nothing, and now the baron's calling for our heads. I don't like this one bit."

They continued their patrol in silence for a moment, the oppressive atmosphere of the forest closing in around them. The thick fog muffled their footsteps, creating an eerie stillness.

Just as the first bandit opened his mouth to speak again, the underbrush to their right rustled violently. Before either of them could react, figures emerged from the bushes, weapons gleaming in the pale morning light.

"Ambush!" one of the bandits shouted, his voice cracking in panic as he drew his sword.

But it was too late.

Roderick's men, Awakened warriors under his command, struck with brutal precision. A gleaming blade sliced through the air, cutting down the first bandit before he could even raise his weapon. Blood sprayed across the forest floor as the others scrambled to defend themselves.

"Enemies!" one of the surviving bandits screamed as he staggered back, his eyes wide with terror. "Inform the camp! We're under attack!"

The remaining patrol scattered in all directions, some reaching for their horns to sound the alarm, others trying desperately to hold off the attackers. But Roderick's men moved with lethal efficiency, their strikes precise, their intent clear: eliminate the bandits before they could warn the main camp.

Amid the chaos, one of the bandits managed to blow his horn, the deep, echoing sound reverberating through the trees. The alert had been raised.

More of Roderick's forces surged forward, breaking through the fog like a wave of vengeance. The clash of steel rang out as the front-line assault began in earnest. From the camp, shouts of alarm could be heard as the bandits scrambled to defend their hideout.

"We're going in," one of Roderick's lieutenants growled, his blade already slick with blood.

The forest erupted into chaos as the assault began, the element of surprise in full effect.

*******

Korvan paced restlessly in his chambers, still simmering from the conversation with Alric. His mind raced with anger and paranoia, unable to shake the uneasy feeling that something was wrong. He took a deep swig of wine, his thoughts momentarily clouded by the bitter liquid.

But then, a loud, frantic pounding echoed from the door.

"Leader!" a voice shouted from outside, filled with urgency.

Korvan's eyes narrowed as he marched to the door, throwing it open. One of his lieutenants stood there, panting heavily, his face pale with fear.

"We're under attack!" the lieutenant gasped, his words tumbling out in a rush. "Roderick's men—they're here, right outside the camp!"

For a moment, Korvan froze, the wine goblet slipping from his hand and crashing to the ground. His eyes widened in disbelief, fury igniting in his chest like a roaring inferno.

"What?!" Korvan bellowed, his voice filled with raw anger. "How could they have found us so soon?!"

The lieutenant, shaking, took a step back. "I—I don't know, Leader! But they're already fighting our men at the perimeter! We have to act fast, or we'll be overrun!"

Korvan's fists clenched tightly, his knuckles turning white. He turned sharply and shouted, "ALRIC!"

Alric appeared in the doorway moments later, his expression calm but his eyes calculating. "I assume the attack has begun," he said, his voice cold and collected.

"Get every man we have ready!" Korvan snarled. "We'll crush them, but first…" His voice trailed off as his eyes darkened with sudden realization.

He stormed past Alric, heading straight for the room where Ron was being held captive. His boots thudded against the stone floor, the sound echoing in the now chaotic hideout. His mind raced—Ron was his bargaining chip, his last line of leverage. If anything had happened to the boy…

Korvan reached the door, throwing it open with such force that it slammed against the wall. His eyes darted around the room, scanning every corner.

But it was empty.

Ron was gone.

Korvan's breath hitched, his heart pounding as he stepped further into the room. There were no signs of a struggle, no overturned furniture—nothing. It was as if Ron had simply vanished.

"Where is he?!" Korvan roared, his voice echoing in the empty chamber. His fists slammed into the wall, cracking the stone. His eyes blazed with fury as he spun around, glaring at Alric, who had just arrived at the door.

"He's gone!" Korvan bellowed, his rage threatening to boil over. "How the hell did this happen?!"

Alric's eyes scanned the room, his calculating gaze taking in every detail. His expression remained calm, though a glint of concern flickered in his eyes. "It seems we've been outplayed," he muttered, almost to himself. "They knew exactly when to strike."

Korvan's hands trembled with fury. "Find him!" he shouted, his voice hoarse with anger. "Find the boy, or I'll tear this whole place apart!"

Alric nodded, already turning to leave and issue orders. But in the back of his mind, he couldn't shake the uneasy feeling that they were now playing into their enemy's hands. The situation was spiraling out of control faster than he had anticipated.

And it was only a matter of time before everything came crashing down.

Chapter 117: Subjugation (2)

At the edge of the forest, the battle had erupted into a frenzy of steel and blood. Roderick's men, Awakened warriors, tore through the bandit ranks with precision and ferocity.

While they were not the strongest, as many of the town's forces were sent to the battlefield, they were all trained warriors who had worked under a knight like Roderick.

Their blades gleamed in the early light of dawn, cutting down bandits left and right as they surged forward toward Korvan's hideout.

The forest floor was slick with blood, and the cries of the dying echoed through the trees. Bandits fell one after another, desperately calling for reinforcements, but the attack had come too swiftly. They hadn't expected such a well-coordinated assault, and their panic was palpable.

"Help! Get the others!" one bandit screamed as he clutched a gaping wound in his side, his face pale with fear.

Another stumbled backward, his sword slipping from his hand as he collapsed into the dirt, his body trembling. "We're being overrun!" he shouted, his voice barely audible over the clash of steel.

Roderick's men pressed forward relentlessly, their faces grim and focused, cutting down anyone in their path. One soldier, an Awakened, swung his sword with brutal efficiency, his blade slicing through a bandit's torso, leaving a spray of blood in its wake.

It seemed like nothing could stop their advance.

But then, a shadow loomed over them from above.

"YOU BASTARDS!"

A voice, deep and filled with fury, roared from the treetops. The ground trembled as a figure came crashing down from high above, landing with a thunderous impact that sent a shockwave through the clearing. Dirt and debris exploded outward, forcing the attackers to momentarily halt and shield themselves from the force of the landing.

As the dust cleared, a man stood tall amidst the carnage. His broad frame was covered in scars, his muscles rippling beneath his tattered armor. A wicked grin spread across his face as he hefted a massive spear, its blade gleaming menacingly in the early light.

"I'm going to tear you all apart!" the man shouted, his voice echoing across the battlefield. The spear in his hand crackled with energy, the air around him practically vibrating with his raw power. He was one of Korvan's lieutenants—a 3-star Awakened who had gained a fearsome reputation among the bandits for his ruthless efficiency in combat.

The bandits, emboldened by the appearance of their leader, began to rally around him, their fear turning to desperate resolve.

The lieutenant slammed the butt of his spear into the ground, his eyes blazing with fury as he pointed the tip toward Roderick's forces. "You think you can waltz into our territory and take us down? You're dead wrong!"

One of Roderick's men stepped forward, his sword raised, but before he could strike, the lieutenant lunged with incredible speed. His spear shot forward like a bolt of lightning, skewering the man clean through the chest. Blood spurted from the wound, and the soldier crumpled to the ground, lifeless.

"Anyone else?"

SWOOSH!

"I am here, you bastard!" A powerful voice rang out as a figure moved with incredible speed, landing just beyond the fallen soldier. His blade gleamed with a radiant golden light, cutting through the haze of battle like a beacon.

It was Roderick, the knight of Baron Wyndhall, his massive sword held firmly in both hands as he faced the towering lieutenant. His eyes locked onto the man standing before him, a flicker of recognition flashing through his expression.

The lieutenant's grin widened as he lowered his spear slightly, eyeing Roderick with dark amusement. "Roderick," he spat, his voice dripping with venom. "I should have known you'd show your face here. Still playing the baron's loyal lapdog, I see."

Roderick's jaw tightened, his grip on his sword tightening as well. "Gorak," he growled, his voice low and dangerous. "I should've put you down when I had the chance back in Raithe Forest."

Gorak chuckled, his spear crackling with energy once more. "That's your mistake, Roderick. You never finish the job. And now, look where that mercy's gotten you." He gestured to the carnage surrounding them, the bodies of Roderick's men strewn across the battlefield.

"You're going to pay for this," Roderick said, his voice filled with cold fury. He raised his sword, the golden light radiating from the blade intensifying as he channeled his mana into it. "I let you go once. That was a mistake I won't make again."

Gorak twirled his spear, his expression darkening. "We'll see about that. Come on then, knight! Show me what you've got!"

SWOOSH!

With a roar, Roderick charged forward, his sword cutting through the air as he brought it down with incredible force. Gorak met the strike head-on, his spear clashing against the golden blade with a deafening clang. The impact sent shockwaves through the ground, causing the surrounding bandits and soldiers to stumble back from the sheer power of the two clashing Awakened warriors.

For a moment, the two stood locked in a brutal contest of strength, neither giving an inch. Sparks flew as their weapons ground against each other, the air crackling with the raw energy radiating from their mana-infused strikes.

Just as Roderick's sword began to overpower Gorak's spear, the knight's technique shone through. He twisted his body, channeling his mana into a precise arc, sending Gorak stumbling back, his defenses faltering. Roderick pressed the advantage, his golden blade surging forward with lethal intent, aiming to finish the fight.

"You're finished, Gorak!" Roderick roared, his sword just inches away from cutting through the lieutenant's chest.

But before the blade could make contact, a shadow loomed behind Roderick. The sound of rushing wind filled the air, and then—

SWOOSH!

A sharp blade, gleaming with dark energy, cut through the space behind Roderick, aiming for his unprotected back.

Roderick's eyes widened slightly as he realized the danger, but it was too late to block. Gorak's smirk widened as he saw his ally arrive just in time.

"Did you really think this fight was fair?" Gorak spat, laughing as he saw Roderick's predicament. "You're not leaving here alive, knight!"

The second lieutenant, a wiry man named Sorn, his face twisted in a sinister grin, lunged forward with his sword, ready to deliver a fatal blow to Roderick's exposed back.

But just before the strike could land—

CLANG!

Just as Roderick's sword began to overpower Gorak's spear, the knight's technique shone through. He twisted his body, channeling his mana into a precise arc, sending Gorak stumbling back, his defenses faltering. Roderick pressed the advantage, his golden blade surging forward with lethal intent, aiming to finish the fight.

"You're finished, Gorak!" Roderick roared, his sword just inches away from cutting through the lieutenant's chest.

But before the blade could make contact, a shadow loomed behind Roderick. The sound of rushing wind filled the air, and then—

SWOOSH!

A sharp blade, gleaming with dark energy, cut through the space behind Roderick, aiming for his unprotected back.

Roderick's eyes widened slightly as he realized the danger, but it was too late to block. Gorak's smirk widened as he saw his ally arrive just in time.

"Did you really think this fight was fair?" Gorak spat, laughing as he saw Roderick's predicament. "You're not leaving here alive, knight!"

The second lieutenant, a wiry man named Sorn, his face twisted in a sinister grin, lunged forward with his sword, ready to deliver a fatal blow to Roderick's exposed back.

But just before the strike could land—

CLANG!

Another figure appeared out of nowhere, their blade intercepting Sorn's with incredible speed. The impact sent sparks flying, and the dark energy around Sorn's sword dissipated instantly. The newcomer stood tall, his face obscured by the shadows of the trees, save for the scar running down his right eye.

The young man with the scar had arrived.

"I don't think so," he said, his voice cold and calm, his eyes glowing with a faint purple light as he stared down Sorn. The two locked eyes for a moment and Sorn's grin faltered, the confidence draining from his face as he realized he had just been stopped by someone far beyond his expectations.

Roderick, now free from the imminent threat, stepped back, his breathing heavy as he glanced at the young man. "You…," he muttered. "You are late."

The young man didn't respond, his focus entirely on Sorn and Gorak. "This fight," he said softly, "is over now."

Gorak's laughter died in his throat as he saw the fierce determination in the young man's eyes, realizing that this new player was no ordinary warrior.

The tides of battle had shifted, and the fight was now finished.

"You are the one who killed Loren and Lothar."

He had realized this guy was the one who had been taking down the other lieutenants.

Chapter 118: Subjugation (3)

"You are the one who killed Loren and Lothar."

Lucavion's lips curled into a small, confident smile as he raised his estoc, the blade glinting in the morning light. His eyes never left Sorn, who stood frozen, his earlier arrogance replaced by uncertainty. The faint purple glow of Lucavion's starlight mana swirled around his sword, crackling with restrained power.

"That's right," Lucavion said softly, his voice carrying an air of finality. "I'm the one who took down Loren and Lothar. And now, it's your turn."

Sorn's face twisted into a sneer, but there was no hiding the fear behind his eyes. He took a half step back, his sword trembling slightly in his grip. "You think you can just walk in here and take us all down? You're nothing but a—"

Before he could finish, Lucavion's sword ignited with starlight mana, the energy swirling around the blade in brilliant arcs of light. His eyes narrowed, and he took a slow, deliberate step forward.

"Roderick," Lucavion said without turning his head, "This one is yours. It seems you two have unfinished business."

Roderick, still catching his breath, nodded. His gaze flicked to Gorak, who had recovered enough to regain his footing, his spear poised for another strike. "I wouldn't have it any other way," Roderick growled, stepping forward to face Gorak once more.

The two warriors squared off, their intense history clear in their eyes. But Lucavion's focus remained on Sorn.

Sorn's sneer hardened into a grimace, his eyes narrowing as he regained some of his composure. He took a step back, his stance shifting, the wind around him picking up in intensity. His longsword began to glow faintly, the air around him swirling with controlled gusts, responding to his command.

"You'll regret underestimating me," Sorn hissed, his voice low and filled with menace. "I'm no pushover. Wind responds to my every move, and I'll cut you down before you even know it."

"Wind….." He mumbled as he looked into Sorn. "It reminds me of that time."

"Whatever," Sorn said as he grabbed his blade.

Lucavion's gaze remained calm and focused, the starlight mana swirling around his estoc intensifying as he channeled his energy, his stance poised and ready. "Let's see just how fast you are," he said coolly, his eyes gleaming with confidence.

SWOOSH!

Sorn moved first. In an instant, he disappeared from his spot, a gust of wind kicking up behind him as he blurred toward Lucavion, his sword raised for a lightning-fast strike. The wind gathered around Sorn's blade, extending it beyond its physical reach, creating an invisible edge meant to catch Lucavion off guard.

But Lucavion was ready. His eyes tracked Sorn's movements with precise accuracy, his instincts honed from countless battles. Just as Sorn's sword slashed toward him, Lucavion sidestepped the attack, his estoc glowing with brilliant starlight mana.

CLANG!

Their blades met with a clash of sparks and wind, the force of the impact sending shockwaves through the air. Sorn twisted his sword, using the momentum of the wind to push Lucavion back, but the starlight energy surrounding Lucavion's estoc held firm, deflecting the force with ease.

"Is that all you've got?" Lucavion asked, his voice taunting as he shifted his stance, his feet light and ready for the next exchange.

Sorn snarled, his eyes flashing with fury. He thrust his sword forward, wind blades materializing around him and shooting toward Lucavion.

Each strike was a precise, wind-enhanced slash designed to overwhelm and confuse his opponent.

It was something that he could do as a three-star. While the other lieutenants, like Lothar and Loren, were also 3-star, none of them could use their mana outside of their body this well.

That was what made him different from others and made him third in line of command in terms of strength.

But Lucavion danced around the attacks with fluid grace, his estoc parrying and deflecting the wind blades with expert precision. His movements were smooth and calculated as if he was one step ahead of every strike Sorn unleashed.

CLANG! SWOOSH! CLANG!

Their swords clashed again and again, the battlefield lit by the glowing arcs of wind and starlight mana. Each time Sorn tried to outmaneuver Lucavion, the young man's blade was already there, meeting his attack head-on.

Lucavion's eyes gleamed with amusement as he pushed forward, his estoc shimmering with an intensified glow. "You rely too much on your speed and wind," he said, his voice calm amidst the chaos. "But I've fought faster."

'None of them compare to that time.'

After all, there was one battle that he had played countless times in his head.

The battle was where he lost quite a lot.

SWOOSH!

With a sudden burst of energy, Lucavion struck. His estoc moved like a blur, with the starlight mana surrounding it extending outward, forming a crescent arc of light. The arc sliced through the air, heading straight for Sorn, who barely managed to dodge the attack.

The wind around Sorn intensified as he attempted to gather more power, but Lucavion didn't give him a chance to recover. He lunged forward, his estoc glowing brighter as he closed the distance in an instant.

「Void Starfall Blade: Crescent Surge」

The crescent-shaped energy surged toward Sorn, cutting through his wind defenses like a hot knife through butter. Sorn's eyes widened in shock as the attack connected, sending him stumbling backward. Blood splattered across the ground as the force of the blow cut deep into his side.

"Not bad, but not quite there."

Lucavion said as he approached right beside him once again.

CLANK!

At the last second, Sorn managed to raise his blade, meeting the strike, but that was still not enough.

Sorn's sword clashed against Lucavion's again, but his grip faltered. Lucavion wasted no time.

With a sharp flick of his wrist, his estoc slashed across Sorn's hand, striking his wrist with pinpoint accuracy. The pain shot through Sorn's arm, his grip weakening.

Before Sorn could react, Lucavion struck again. His estoc, shimmering with starlight mana, cut through the air and crashed against Sorn's sword, knocking it aside with a forceful blow. Lucavion leaped back gracefully, his blade leaving a glowing trail of starlight in its wake.

BOOM!

The starlight exploded in a brilliant flash, and in the aftermath of the blast, the sound of metal clattering to the ground echoed through the battlefield. Sorn's sword slipped from his hand; his strength drained as his fingers lost their hold on the weapon.

Sorn staggered, clutching his wrist, his eyes wide with disbelief and pain. His sword lay several feet away, useless. Blood dripped from his wounds, and his wind defenses dissipated into nothing.

Lucavion's expression remained cold, focused. Without a word, he dashed forward in a smooth, practiced motion. His long estoc glimmered as he closed the distance between them, his speed blinding.

Sorn barely had time to gasp before Lucavion's blade found its mark.

SCHLUNK!

The estoc pierced cleanly through Sorn's neck, the starlight energy swirling around the wound as blood spurted into the air. Sorn's eyes went wide with shock, his body trembling as he struggled to breathe, his wind magic fading entirely.

Lucavion withdrew his blade with a calm, practiced grace, stepping back as Sorn's body crumpled to the ground.

The duel was over.

"Not bad."

And Lucavion was satisfied. At the very least, his blade, now without any mana, looked like how it was before the fight.

'Less damage this time.'

Lucavion wiped the blade of his estoc on Sorn's fallen form, his expression cold as he straightened up. He glanced around, taking in the battlefield with sharp eyes. The chaos of the fight was evident, but there was a strange sense of control in Roderick's men—they were organized, putting on a strong showing against the remaining bandits.

The element of surprise had worked in their favor, and the bandits were faltering.

Lucavion's gaze shifted toward the clash between Roderick and Gorak. He could see that Roderick was holding the upper hand, his golden sword radiating power with each strike, while Gorak, despite his brute strength, was clearly on the defensive. The knight's precise movements and control over his mana were pushing Gorak further back with every blow.

'He's got this,' Lucavion thought, his eyes scanning beyond the immediate battle.

He turned his attention toward the heart of the camp. The main hideout. That was where Korvan would be. Lucavion's instincts sharpened as his gaze locked onto it, knowing that Korvan was their true target. Rumors of Korvan being a peak 3-star Awakened filled his mind, making him pause for a brief moment.

'There's no time to waste.'

Lucavion wanted to kill every bandit he could, to gather their death mana and increase his power, but he knew he couldn't afford to be distracted.

Doing so would expose the true nature of his death mana to Roderick and his men—something he couldn't allow. And more importantly, he needed to conserve his energy. Korvan was leagues above his lieutenants in both strength and cunning, and there was still Alric, the last lieutenant, to consider.

'Can't afford to waste more energy here.'

With that thought, Lucavion made his decision. In an instant, he shifted his stance, focusing all his energy on his legs. The starlight mana that coated his blade flowed into his body, amplifying his speed. He shot forward, leaving the skirmish behind as he rushed toward the center of the bandit camp.

Lucavion's figure blurred as he darted between tents and structures, weaving through the battlefield with deadly precision. Any bandit who dared to step in his path barely had time to react before his estoc sliced through them, leaving behind only a whisper of blood and death in his wake.

His goal was clear: Korvan.

And then, as he rounded the final corner, he saw him.

"So. This is the bastard who's been cutting down my men."